Colonial. Switzerland’s Global Entanglements

Description

Swiss citizens and companies were heavily involved in the colonial system from the 16th century onwards. Some Swiss companies and private individuals took part in the transatlantic slave trade and earned a fortune from the trade in colonial goods and exploitation of slave labour. Swiss men and women travelled the globe as missionaries. Other Swiss, driven by poverty or a thirst for adventure, served as mercenaries in European armies sent to conquer colonial territory or crush uprisings by the indigenous population. Swiss experts also placed their knowledge at the disposal of the colonial powers. And the racial theories prevalent at the time, which were used to justify the colonial system, formed part of the curriculum at the universities of Zurich and Geneva.

The exhibition at the Château de Prangins draws on the latest research findings and uses concrete examples, illustrated with objects, works of art, photographs and documents, to present, for the first time in French-speaking Switzerland, a comprehensive overview of Switzerland's history of colonial entanglement. And by drawing parallels to contemporary issues, it also explores the question of what this colonial heritage means for present-day Switzerland. Shown at the Landesmuseum in Zurich in 2024, it is presented in an adapted form at the Château de Prangins.

Highlights

• Exhibition on Switzerland's colonial history
• Features objects, artworks, and documents
• Explores colonial legacy and contemporary issues

General Information

The exhibition at Château de Prangins provides a comprehensive overview of Switzerland's involvement in colonial systems from the 16th century onwards. It draws on recent research and presents examples of Swiss participation in trade, military service, and knowledge transfer. The exhibit also considers the impact of colonial heritage on modern Switzerland.

Location

Avenue Général Guiguer 3, 1197 Prangins, Schweiz

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